Meet the Team at First Merchant BankNorthland Branch

Davonte Butler, Banking Center Manager at First Merchants Bank’s branch in Northland on Morse Road, is a homegrown leader. “This area is my home – I’ve lived everywhere between Hudson and 161,” he shared with a laugh. “I remember when Northland was a mall, and I’ve seen how the neighborhood changed over time – how the people have changed, and how their needs have changed.”

As a young boy, Davonte gained a sense of justice and desire to do good from his mother and his grandmother – strong women who taught him to walk with integrity and confidence.

“Then, when I started in banking, I was fortunate to serve under good leaders who taught me the importance of treating everyone with respect and decency, and the power of attentive listening. It’s that attitude that I strive to embody every day,” he said.

Whether that’s mentoring local youth, encouraging others to meet their fitness goals as a licensed personal trainer, giving back to his community through volunteerism, or greeting customers with a smile at the Northland Banking Center, Davonte never stops pouring out his heart for those around him.

“I think everyone needs someone in their lives who will take the time to help them develop – even at their local bank,” he said. “My goal, in my personal and professional life, is to assist others as they determine where they want to go in life, and to do my utmost to help them get there.”

And, in First Merchants, he’s found his niche.

“My team at First Merchants are passionate and attentive individu- als who share that goal with me,” he said. “Our banking center – and First Merchants in general – is really like a neighborhood, or a family. We support each other, and we’re here to support you and your family in any capacity we can.”